ArcaMax

Q: I recently remarried after years of being a single parent. My new husband is a wonderful man. He's kind, but firm, with my three kids and plans to adopt them. But my preschool-age son is having a difficult time warming up to his new stepfather. Help!?

Jim: Based on my own experience as a young stepson, it's easy for me to see this situation ...Read more

Q: I'm not generally one for labels, but I think it's fair to call my husband a "workaholic" -- he might even agree. He's preoccupied with his job and spends very little time with me and our kids. When I've asked him about it he just says: "Things will be better soon." Do you have any suggestions?

Jim: As a rule, we men are usually wired to be ...Read more

Q: My husband was an excellent athlete as a teen and collegian. Our teen son is also showing athletic promise. But he doesn't enjoy playing sports because of the pressure he gets from Dad to perform. How can I help balance the growing tension in our home?

Jim: I myself grew up enjoying and benefitting from sports, so in many ways I can ...Read more

Q: My aged mother is not doing well. We're strongly considering bringing her into our home rather than placing her in a care facility. But we still have three children living with us. How might this impact our family dynamics?

Jim: It will likely be a big impact -- and you should be prepared for blessings as well as challenges. On the plus side...Read more

Q: Our three-year-old son is fascinated with evil characters. Whenever he plays make-believe he always takes on the role of the villain; the only action figures he wants are the "bad guys." We've made big changes to our media viewing habits -- but nothing has changed. How should we address this?

Jim: Generally speaking, I don't think there's ...Read more